Shoreline Pediatrics provides high-quality, personalized care for infants, children & teens in Muskegon MI.

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that children may make without meaning to.

They can include movements such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, or facial grimacing, and sounds like throat clearing, sniffing, or humming.

Tics are fairly common in school-age children and often appear during times of stress, excitement, fatigue, or illness. In many cases, they are temporary and improve over time.

It may be helpful to have your child evaluated if tics are frequent, last longer than several months, cause distress, or begin to interfere with school, social interactions, or daily activities.

Tip from Dr. Ramirez: Capture the concerning movement or noise on video and bring it to your child’s next appointment. Seeing the video can help us determine if it is a tic or something else.

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Young children explore the world by touching and tasting, which makes poisoning prevention especially important in the toddler years.

Medicines, vitamins, cleaning products, and other household chemicals should always be stored out of reach and ideally locked away. Child-resistant caps can help, but they are not childproof.

Avoid leaving medications on counters or in bags where children can access them, and keep products in their original containers so labels and instructions remain clear.

If a child may have swallowed something harmful, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

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Earth Day is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and teach children about caring for the environment.

Simple activities like planting seeds, taking a family nature walk, or picking up litter at a local park can help kids feel connected to the world around them.

Time outside also supports children’s health. Outdoor play encourages physical activity, improves mood, and helps support better sleep. Even small steps can help families build healthy habits while caring for the environment.

How does your family celebrate Earth Day? Share your favorite outdoor activity in the comments.

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Separation anxiety is common in toddlers, especially during transitions like starting daycare, preschool, or a new routine.

It is normal for children to cry or cling at drop-off as they learn that their caregiver will return.

Short, predictable goodbye routines can help children adjust. A quick hug, a consistent phrase such as “I’ll see you after school,” and leaving without lingering often works better than repeated goodbyes.

Consistency with caregivers and daily routines can also help toddlers feel more secure.

Most children adjust over time as they become familiar with their environment and caregivers.

If separation anxiety continues to worsen, interferes with daily routines, or causes significant distress, it may be helpful to discuss strategies with your child’s doctor at Shoreline Pediatrics.

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Heading out with a newborn or infant is easier when you have a few essentials packed and ready to go. A well-stocked diaper bag can help parents feel prepared for feedings, diaper changes, and unexpected messes.

Five helpful items to keep in your baby’s bag include diapers and wipes, a changing pad, an extra set of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles or nursing cover if needed), and a comfort item such as a pacifier or small blanket. A plastic bag or wet bag can also be helpful for storing soiled clothes.

Packing these basics can make outings smoother and help parents feel more confident when leaving the house with their baby.

Dr. DeWitt recommends packing an extra shirt for yourself as well. You never know when you will get pooped, peed, or spit up on.

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Roseola is a common viral illness seen in infants and young children, most often between 6 months and 2 years of age. It typically begins with a high fever that lasts for several days, sometimes with mild symptoms like irritability or decreased appetite.

Once the fever resolves, a pink or light red rash often appears on the chest, back, or abdomen and may spread to the neck and arms.

The rash itself usually does not bother the child and often fades within one to two days.

Most children recover quickly and return to normal activities once the fever has resolved.

Call the office if the fever lasts longer than expected, if your child appears very ill, has difficulty staying hydrated, or if you have concerns about the rash or other symptoms.

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Choosing sunscreen doesn’t have to be confusing!

Look for SPF 30 or higher, apply generously, and reapply every two hours, or sooner if swimming or sweating. Mineral sunscreens are often well tolerated for sensitive skin.

Remember to pair sunscreen with hats, shade, and protective clothing for the best coverage.

For infants younger than 6 months, consult with your provider prior to using any sunscreen products.

Questions about sunscreen or skin sensitivity? Give Shoreline Pediatrics a call so we can help keep your child’s skin safe.

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to recognize and support individuals on the autism spectrum and promote understanding and inclusion in our communities.

Autism is a developmental condition that can affect communication, social interaction, and behavior, and every child’s strengths and challenges are unique.

Early support and services can make a meaningful difference for many children and families. Resources such as Autism Speaks and the Autism Society provide educational materials, support networks, and guidance for navigating therapies and services. Local early intervention programs and school-based services can also play an important role in supporting development.

If you have questions about developmental concerns or autism resources, speak with your child’s physician at Shoreline Pediatrics to learn about services and support available in your area.

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Wishing all of our families a happy and peaceful Easter.

Holidays are a wonderful time for children to enjoy traditions like egg hunts, family meals, and time together.

As you celebrate, keep safety in mind by supervising younger children during egg hunts and helping them pace candy and treats throughout the day.

Small reminders like checking candy for choking hazards and encouraging water and regular meals can help everyone enjoy the day comfortably.

We hope your family has a joyful Easter. What is your favorite Easter tradition? Share in the comments.

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